The Varmint By: Owen Johnson (1878-1952)
In Owen Johnson's novel, The Varmint, readers are transported back in time to a small American town in the early 20th century. Through vivid descriptions and compelling characters, Johnson weaves a mesmerizing tale that explores themes of family, love, and redemption. The story revolves around the protagonist, Bunny Marlowe, a mischievous young boy with a knack for getting into trouble. Bunny is a delightful mix of innocence and curiosity, and readers will find themselves enchanted by his infectious spirit. Despite his youthful antics, Bunny possesses a vulnerability that adds depth to his character, making him relatable and endearing. Johnson effectively captures the essence of small-town life, with its vibrant cast of supporting characters. From Aunt Sallie, the stern disciplinarian who cares for Bunny, to Dotty, Bunny's vivacious and adventurous friend, each character adds a unique dimension to the narrative. They become more than just fictional individuals; they become familiar faces, leaving a lasting impression on readers' hearts. At the heart of The Varmint lies a story about the triumph of love and family over adversity. Bunny's journey towards self-discovery is beautifully depicted, as he learns valuable lessons about loyalty, forgiveness, and the importance of embracing one's true identity. The novel serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of challenges, one can find solace and strength within the bonds of family and friendship. Johnson's writing style is evocative and engaging, painting vivid pictures in readers' minds. His attention to detail immerses readers in the time period, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of the story. The prose flows smoothly, effortlessly carrying the reader through the ups and downs of Bunny's journey. While The Varmint explores serious themes, it also provides moments of lightheartedness and humor. Johnson skillfully balances these elements, creating a narrative that is both thought-provoking and enjoyable to read. The story is rich with heartwarming moments and unexpected twists, ensuring that readers will remain captivated until the very last page. Overall, Owen Johnson's The Varmint is a compelling and poignant coming-of-age story that leaves a lasting impact. Through its endearing characters and captivating narrative, the novel explores the timeless themes of love, family, and self-discovery. Johnson's exquisite storytelling transports readers to a bygone era and reminds us of the power of resilience and the beauty of human connections. First Page: The Varmint [Illustration] OWEN JOHNSON The Varmint By OWEN JOHNSON Author of "The Prodigious Hickey," "Stover at Yale," "The Humming Bird," "Tennessee Shad," etc. WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY F. R. GRUGER A. L. BURT COMPANY PUBLISHERS NEW YORK COPYRIGHT, 1910, BY THE BAKER & TAYLOR COMPANY Published, July, 1910 THE COUNTRY LIFE PRESS, GARDEN CITY, N. Y. TO Alexander Lambert, M.D. IN FRIENDSHIP, IN GRATITUDE, AND IN MEMORY OF MY WIFE. THE VARMINT [Illustration: "LIKE MY JIBS?" SAID STOVER] THE VARMINT I When young Stover disembarked at the Trenton station on the fourth day after the opening of the spring term he had acquired in his brief journey so much of the Pennsylvania rolling stock as could be detached and concealed. Inserted between his nether and outer shirts were two gilt "Directions to Travelers" which clung like mustard plasters to his back, while a jagged tin sign, wrenched from the home terminal, embraced his stomach with the painful tenacity of the historic Spartan fox. In his pockets were objects small objects but precious and dangerous to unscrew and acquire. Being forced to wait, he sat now, preternaturally stiff, perched on a heap of trunks, clutching a broken dress suit case which had been re enforced with particolored strings... Continue reading book >>

The Varmint By: Owen Johnson (1878-1952)

In Owen Johnson's novel, The Varmint, readers are transported back in time to a small American town in the early 20th century. Through vivid descriptions and compelling characters, Johnson weaves a mesmerizing tale that explores themes of family, love, and redemption.

The story revolves around the protagonist, Bunny Marlowe, a mischievous young boy with a knack for getting into trouble. Bunny is a delightful mix of innocence and curiosity, and readers will find themselves enchanted by his infectious spirit. Despite his youthful antics, Bunny possesses a vulnerability that adds depth to his character, making him relatable and endearing.

Johnson effectively captures the essence of small-town life, with its vibrant cast of supporting characters. From Aunt Sallie, the stern disciplinarian who cares for Bunny, to Dotty, Bunny's vivacious and adventurous friend, each character adds a unique dimension to the narrative. They become more than just fictional individuals; they become familiar faces, leaving a lasting impression on readers' hearts.

At the heart of The Varmint lies a story about the triumph of love and family over adversity. Bunny's journey towards self-discovery is beautifully depicted, as he learns valuable lessons about loyalty, forgiveness, and the importance of embracing one's true identity. The novel serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of challenges, one can find solace and strength within the bonds of family and friendship.

Johnson's writing style is evocative and engaging, painting vivid pictures in readers' minds. His attention to detail immerses readers in the time period, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of the story. The prose flows smoothly, effortlessly carrying the reader through the ups and downs of Bunny's journey.

While The Varmint explores serious themes, it also provides moments of lightheartedness and humor. Johnson skillfully balances these elements, creating a narrative that is both thought-provoking and enjoyable to read. The story is rich with heartwarming moments and unexpected twists, ensuring that readers will remain captivated until the very last page.

Overall, Owen Johnson's The Varmint is a compelling and poignant coming-of-age story that leaves a lasting impact. Through its endearing characters and captivating narrative, the novel explores the timeless themes of love, family, and self-discovery. Johnson's exquisite storytelling transports readers to a bygone era and reminds us of the power of resilience and the beauty of human connections.

First Page:

The Varmint

[Illustration]

OWEN JOHNSON

The Varmint

By OWEN JOHNSON

Author of "The Prodigious Hickey," "Stover at Yale," "The Humming Bird," "Tennessee Shad," etc.

WITH FOUR ILLUSTRATIONS BY F. R. GRUGER

A. L. BURT COMPANY PUBLISHERS NEW YORK

Published, July, 1910

THE COUNTRY LIFE PRESS, GARDEN CITY, N. Y.

Alexander Lambert, M.D.

IN FRIENDSHIP, IN GRATITUDE, AND IN MEMORY OF MY WIFE.

THE VARMINT

[Illustration: "LIKE MY JIBS?" SAID STOVER]

THE VARMINT

When young Stover disembarked at the Trenton station on the fourth day after the opening of the spring term he had acquired in his brief journey so much of the Pennsylvania rolling stock as could be detached and concealed. Inserted between his nether and outer shirts were two gilt "Directions to Travelers" which clung like mustard plasters to his back, while a jagged tin sign, wrenched from the home terminal, embraced his stomach with the painful tenacity of the historic Spartan fox. In his pockets were objects small objects but precious and dangerous to unscrew and acquire.

Being forced to wait, he sat now, preternaturally stiff, perched on a heap of trunks, clutching a broken dress suit case which had been re enforced with particolored strings... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – The Varmint

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